Breakfast with Santa FUNDRAISER
Our unspoken family motto is “see a need, fill a need”, which essentially means, if we see a need we can fill, we try to help. In addition to running this little business, I am also the Director of Youth Ministry & Communications for our church. So for the last few years we’ve held these Breakfast with Santa fundraisers to help support our teen programs. This year, we are raising funds to attend a retreat.
Our unspoken family motto is “see a need, fill a need”, which essentially means, if we see a need we can fill, we try to help. In addition to running this little business, I am also the Director of Youth Ministry & Communications for our church. So for the last few years we’ve held these Breakfast with Santa fundraisers to help support our teen programs. This year, we are raising funds to attend a retreat.
It’s our small way of giving back and using our talents to provide a meaningful service to our community while helping raise funds for the teens who need a bit of financial assistance to go on this trip. Pictures with Santa were free - or by donation and 100% of the funds we raised were donated to the program.
Denniss and I enjoy doing this type of work. For example, we donate a portion of our profits on school portrait sessions. Denniss is very interested in moving into sports photography and a key aspect of his plan would be to help support the team with a donation, which I just love.
Christian's Senior Photo Session: Georgetown
At Olea & Co, we understand that senior year in high school marks a special time in a young person's life. It's a moment of transition, nostalgia, and excitement for the adventures that lie ahead. Join us as we take a candid look at Christian's senior photo session, set against the charming backdrop of Georgetown, Washington DC. No frills, no extravagant descriptions – just a genuine story of a high school senior's journey.
We understand that senior year in high school marks a special time in a young person's life. It's a moment of transition, nostalgia, and excitement for the adventures that lie ahead. Join us as we take a candid look at Christian's senior photo session, set against the charming backdrop of Georgetown, Washington DC. No frills, no extravagant descriptions – just a genuine story of a high school senior's journey.
Spring Senior Photo Session in Georgetown
Georgetown, with its cobblestone streets and historic architecture, provided the ideal setting for Christian's senior session. As he walked down those familiar paths, it was clear that he was comfortable and at ease, ready to let his personality shine through the lens.
Georgetown is the perfect backdrop for a Senior Photo Session
The Relaxed Vibe of a High School Senior
Christian's session was all about capturing his authentic self – the young man who's on the cusp of adulthood but still cherishing the remnants of his carefree high school days. From the laughter shared with his mom as we discovered we had some many things in common to the contemplative moments by the old warehouse, every frame revealed a slice of his genuine character.
A Snapshot of the Region
While Georgetown was the stage for Christian's senior session, it's important to note that the shoot seamlessly embraced the essence of the wider region, including Southern Maryland, Northern Virginia, and the National Capitol Region. These areas naturally blend into the everyday lives of local high school seniors like Christian, making them feel a sense of belonging to a larger community.
Preserving Memories for the Future
Christian's senior photos will undoubtedly become treasured memories for him and his loved ones. At Olea & Co, our focus is on capturing those fleeting moments that will one day trigger a flood of memories and emotions. These are the photographs that will remind Christian of the excitement, uncertainty, and joy of his senior year.
Celebrating a Milestone, Looking to the Future
In a world of constant change, there's something beautiful about freezing a moment in time. Christian's senior session was a celebration of where he's been and a peek into where he's headed. As he embarks on new adventures and embraces the challenges of adulthood, we wish him all the best.
Georgetown and the wider National Capitol Region offer so many opportunities for high school senior portrait sessions. At Olea & Co, we're honored to be a part of such important moments, preserving memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.
Olea & Co. Creative Agency, Helping Entrepreneurs Scale
Olea & Co. is a creative agency that offers a wide range of services to help businesses establish a strong brand identity, reach their target audience, and achieve their marketing goals. From branding and web design to advertising and social media management, Olea & Co. provides a comprehensive suite of services that help businesses stand out in a crowded marketplace.
One of the key strengths of Olea & Co. is their ability to develop a unique and memorable brand identity for their clients. They work closely with businesses to understand their values, mission, and target audience, and then develop a brand identity that effectively communicates their message. This may include logo design, color palette development, typography selection, and overall visual identity design.
In addition to brand identity development, Olea & Co. offers a range of design services to help businesses create marketing materials that effectively communicate their message. This includes print design such as brochures, business cards, and product packaging, as well as digital design such as website design, email marketing templates, and social media graphics.
One of the areas where Olea & Co. truly shines is in the development and execution of marketing campaigns. They have a deep understanding of the marketing landscape and are able to craft campaigns that are both creative and effective. From traditional advertising such as print and outdoor to digital marketing such as social media, email, and PPC advertising, Olea & Co. can help businesses reach their target audience and achieve their marketing goals.
What We Do As a Creative Agency
A creative agency is a business that offers a range of services related to marketing, advertising, and design. The primary goal of a creative agency is to help clients communicate their message to their target audience through creative and effective branding, advertising, and marketing campaigns.
Some of the services we offer include:
Branding and identity design: A creative agency can help clients develop a unique brand identity that communicates their values, mission, and personality. This may include creating a logo, color scheme, and overall visual identity.
Advertising: We may develop and implement advertising campaigns across various media channels, such as print, digital, and outdoor advertising.
Marketing strategy: We can help clients develop a comprehensive marketing strategy that includes tactics such as social media marketing, email marketing, and content marketing.
Graphic design: Creative agencies often provide graphic design services to clients, including the design of brochures, flyers, posters, and other marketing materials.
Website Content : We help optimize your website with the right verbiage to get the most visitors to your website.
Overall, a creative agency helps businesses develop and implement effective marketing strategies that drive brand awareness, customer engagement, and sales. They work closely with clients to understand their business goals, target audience, and unique selling proposition to create compelling and creative marketing campaigns.
How to Make the Most of Daylight Saving Time Spring Forward
As the days grow longer and warmer, it's time to "spring forward" and welcome the return of Daylight Saving Time. On the second Sunday in March, most of the United States sets their clocks forward by one hour, resulting in a shorter night of sleep and a longer day. While this change may take some getting used to, it can significantly impact our mood, energy levels, and productivity. This blog post will share tips to help you make the most of Daylight Saving Time Spring Forward.
As the days grow longer and warmer, it's time to "spring forward" and welcome the return of Daylight Saving Time. On the second Sunday in March, most of the United States sets their clocks forward by one hour, resulting in a shorter night of sleep and a longer day. While this change may take some getting used to, it can significantly impact our mood, energy levels, and productivity. This blog post will share tips to help you make the most of Daylight Saving Time Spring Forward.
Gradually Adjust Your Sleep Schedule To make the transition to Daylight Saving Time smoother, adjust your sleep schedule a few days before the time change. Go to bed and wake up 15-30 minutes earlier each day until you're on the new program. This will help your body adjust gradually and avoid feeling groggy or tired.
Get Plenty of Natural Light With the arrival of Daylight Saving Time comes longer days and more natural light. Take advantage of this by spending time outside during the day, opening your blinds and curtains, and using bright lights in your home or workspace. Exposure to natural light can help regulate your circadian rhythm, boost your mood, and increase your energy levels.
Establish a Consistent Sleep Schedule A consistent sleep schedule is essential for good sleep hygiene and overall well-being. This means going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, including on the weekends. A consistent sleep schedule can help regulate your body's internal clock, improve sleep quality, and reduce daytime sleepiness.
Practice Good Sleep Hygiene Good sleep hygiene is essential for a good night's sleep. This includes creating a relaxing sleep environment, avoiding screens before bedtime, and establishing a bedtime routine. Practice good sleep hygiene to help you fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer, and wake up feeling refreshed.
Make Time for Outdoor Activities With the longer days and warmer weather, Daylight Saving Time Spring Forward is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy nature. Make time for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, or gardening. Spending time in nature can help reduce stress, boost mood, and increase energy levels.
Daylight Savings Time is our time to "spring forward" and can be an opportunity to improve your sleep, mood, and overall well-being. You can make the most of this time of year by gradually adjusting your sleep schedule, getting plenty of natural light, establishing a consistent sleep schedule, practicing good sleep hygiene, and making time for outdoor activities. So give these tips a try, and enjoy the longer, brighter days ahead.
Sources used for this article:
Radish Health. "Spring Forward with a Pep in Your Step." Radish Health Blog, 10 March 2023, https://radish.health/blog/spring-forward-with-a-pep-in-your-step/.
Linde, Jackson. "The Best Natural Sleep Aids for a Better Night's Rest." Sleep Advisor. Accessed March 10, 2023. https://www.sleepadvisor.org/best-natural-sleep-aid/.
Johnson, Sarah. "The Sleep-Anxiety Connection: Can Better Rest Improve Mental Health?" Comprehensive Healthcare Environmental Services Blog. March 9, 2023. https://www.cheservices.com/blog/the-sleep-anxiety-connection-can-better-rest-improve-mental-health.
Why You Should Hire Olea & Co. Family Photographer in Southern Maryland
Hiring a family photographer in Southern Maryland is a great investment that can provide numerous benefits. Professional quality photographs, access to professional equipment, creative input, timeless memories, convenience, memorable moments, unique perspectives, and opportunities for bonding are just some of the benefits of hiring Olea & Co as your Lifestyle Family Photographers in Southern Maryland.
As we go through life, we create countless memories we want to cherish forever. Many of these memories involve our loved ones, especially our families. Whether it’s the arrival of a new member, a birthday celebration, or just a regular family gathering, capturing these moments with high-quality photographs can help us remember them for years to come. Hiring a family photographer in Southern Maryland can be a significant investment. This blog post will explore some benefits of hiring Olea & Co. as your family photographer in Southern Maryland.
Professional Quality Photographs
One of the main benefits of hiring a family photographer is that you can be assured of professional quality photographs. As skilled family photographers we have the knowledge, experience, and equipment to capture stunning images showcasing your family’s personality and unique bond. Professional photographers we also know how to use lighting, angles, and composition to create photographs that stand out and make a lasting impression.
Creative Input
As your family photographers we are also creative individuals who provide fresh ideas and suggestions for your photo shoot. We can help you choose the right location, outfits, and props to make your photographs look their best. We may also suggest different poses and expressions that bring out your family’s personality and make your photos unique.
Timeless Memories
Family photographs are not just snapshots of a moment in time. They are timeless memories that you can treasure for generations. When you hire a family photographer in Southern Maryland, you invest in memories that will last a lifetime. Professional photographs of your family can be passed down from generation to generation. They can become family heirlooms that are cherished for years to come.
Convenient and Stress-Free
Hiring a family photographer can also be convenient and stress-free. Professional family photographers have the expertise and experience to handle all aspects of the photo shoot, from selecting the location and props to managing the lighting and capturing the images. This means you can relax and enjoy the photo shoot without worrying about the details.
Capturing Special Moments
Professional family photographers know how to capture special moments during the photo shoot. We are skilled at capturing candid shots that showcase the natural interactions between your family members. These candid shots are often cherished and can bring back memories of the day you may have forgotten.
Unique Perspective
Professional family photographers have a unique perspective when capturing family photographs. We have an eye for detail and know how to frame shots in a way that highlights the beauty and uniqueness of your family. By hiring a family photographer in Southern Maryland, you can ensure that your family photographs are not just ordinary snapshots but works of art that truly capture the essence of your family.
Opportunity for Bonding
Finally, hiring Olea & Co as your Southern Maryland family photographer can allow your family to bond and create new memories. The photo shoot can be a fun and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. The resulting photographs will be a lasting reminder of that particular day. The photoshoot can also be a great way to get everyone together and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Hiring a family photographer in Southern Maryland is a great investment that can provide numerous benefits. Professional quality photographs, access to professional equipment, creative input, timeless memories, convenience, memorable moments, unique perspectives, and opportunities for bonding are just some of the benefits that come with hiring Olea & Co., as your Family Photographer.
We’re Officially an LLC!
We’re celebrating the fact that Olea & Company is officially an LLC! We can’t wait to help your business scale, perfect your website copy, and grow your social media! We’re also excited to continue to capture your special moments via our photography services.
I am excited to announce Olea & Company is officially an LLC!
We’re celebrating!
I've always wanted to take the leap from freelancing as a sole proprietor to building an actual family business. Still, I wasn't sure what it would look like. But God doesn't place dreams in our hearts for nothing, and this year with Denniss' upcoming retirement from the Air Force, it became apparent to me which direction we should go. He, of course ever, my biggest fan and cheerleader, was here to support my dream, which has become our dream.
Olea & Co. is officially a Creative Agency.
What does that mean?
It means we're using our skill set honed over 17 years of my being a freelance writer, editor, product photographer, and social media manager. In addition, Denniss' 23+ years of military service and exceptional photographic eye to be the most streamlined and efficient content service provider for businesses. I am especially interested in helping small businesses and creative entrepreneurs scale. In addition, Denniss is interested in assisting companies in showcasing their products to their target audience, whether a home for sale or a bottle of wine from a boutique vineyard.
Together we will continue to provide personal portrait sessions because we love taking photos of people. We're a fantastic photography team. It makes us feel warm and fuzzy to deliver images to our clients they will cherish for years to come.
We've also brought on our son Michael. He is a fantastic writer (I am currently editing his first novel.) He's spent the summer apprenticing under me, learning how to write for SEO and businesses. The kid is a word wizard and has a magical way of slinging words together. I personally am in awe of him. Pretty soon, I suspect I'll be the one learning from him.
Cheers to you!
Yes, we’re celebrating, but we’re celebrating you! Our current clients and the one’s we’ve not met yet because we're excited to get to work with you and for you.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out. All you need to do is scroll back up to the main menu and click on the link that says "write us" or drop us a comment below, and we'll be in touch.
Talk soon,
Nicole
New Year Motivational Phone Wall Papers
Motivational wallpapers to remind you, that you’re awesome!
Hello,
Happy 2023! Please enjoy these free wall papers as our way of saying thank you for being on this journey with us!
We wish you all the wonderful and splendid things your heart desires in 2023!
Jaidon’s First 48 Newborn Session - St. Mary’s Hospital, Leonardtown, Maryland
Fresh 48 Session - Newborn Photography at St. Mary’s Hospital, Leonardtown, Maryland.
This week, Nicole had the pleasure of capturing little baby Jaidon. To the delight of his parents he was born on Halloween.
Just hours old, Nicole popped into meet him and his parents Shelia and Jalon.
Fall Mini-Session - Blended Family - Maryland Family Photographer
When you’ve got amazing light, an old tabaco barn, and a beautiful loving family as your subjects.
When you do blending a family right, this is what it looks like. I enjoyed this mini-session so much, that I ignored the clock and kept on shooting.
When you’ve got amazing light, an old tobacco barn, and a beautiful loving family as your subjects how could you not..?
Family Portrait Session with Heather, John and Little Jack - Southern Maryland Family Photograher
The way he looks at her, the crinkle in her nose when she laughs, and the love overflowing made for a lovely morning on this early autumn day.
The way he looks at her, the crinkle in her nose when she laughs, and the love overflowing made for a lovely morning on this early autumn day when Heather, John, and little Jack joined by her sister for a family session in Indian Head, Maryland.
Navy Family – Mini-Session
Spending time with these little guys made me nostalgic for when my own boys were this little, and we were somewhere in the middle of Denniss’ military career. As we get down to the final months of his service in Uniform, it was great to spend time with a family right at the mid-point of their serviceman’s career. As a military spouse, I rarely get to share re-enlistments of other servicemen and women apart from my own Airman, so I jumped at the chance to capture this particular moment in this Navy family’s life.
Spending time with these little guys made me nostalgic for when my own boys were this little, and we were somewhere in the middle of Denniss’ military career. As we get down to the final months of his service in Uniform, it was great to spend time with a family right at the mid-point of their serviceman’s career. As a military spouse, I rarely get to share re-enlistments of other servicemen and women apart from my own Airman, so I jumped at the chance to capture this particular moment in this Navy family’s life.
First Year Mother Daughter Session with Lauren at Chapman State Park, Southern Maryland Photographer
Despite the early August heat and humidity, we captured Lauren and her little one during an early morning mother daughter photo session at Chapman State Park, which is a lovely park located in Indian Head, Maryland.
The early days of a young family are so fleeting. They pass in a blink of exhaustion, pure joy, and worry.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, is that you’ve got to lean in and hang on because this life is beautiful and messy and so totally worth it.
Denniss and I captured Lauren and her little one during an early morning session at Chapman State Park, which is a lovely park located in Indian Head, Maryland.
Fresh-48 Newborn Photography
Fresh 48s are some of my most favorite sessions! The best time for Fresh 48 sessions are during daylight hours, usually in the morning.
Stock photo - currently building portfolio
Birth is an amazing experience and the precious moments immediately following are fleeting. A birth space newborn session allows those raw memories to be savored forever.
If you're wondering what you need to do to prepare for your Fresh 48 session, wonder no more! We are here for you!
Your Fresh 48 session will occur in your birth space (hospital, home, birth center). These sessions are entirely documentary in nature. I will come to you and capture you connecting with your new baby. These sessions typically occur within forty-eight hours of your baby's birth to capture those first early hours with your baby.
Stock photo - currently building portfolio
HOW TO PREPARE FOR YOUR FRESH 48 SESSION
Temperature
Crank up the heat if you can. You don't need to make it a sauna, but keeping the room at a warmer temperature will help keep your new little one content when we're photographing little hands and feet.
What to wear
When packing your hospital bag, include outfits you and your family will wear for your session. Keep it simple; jeans and a neutral solid-colored top for partners work best. The mother should wear something comfortable.
I suggest moms wear a simple, loose dress, nightgown, or pajamas (cute robe optional). If you want to wear pants, remember that your pre-pregnancy clothes may not fit. Maternity pants, leggings, or yoga pants are all great options. Keep things simple and minimal. We want the focus to be on you and your baby and not be distracted by busy prints or too bright colors.
If siblings are present, dress them in coordinating, comfortable clothing free of embellishments that could scratch babies, etc.
Stay in Touch
It's crucial to notify us when mom goes into labor. This will give your photographer enough time to prepare for your upcoming session and schedule a time to arrive. Assigning this task to someone like your partner, a parent, or a trusted friend is a good idea.
Minimal to No Visitors
Only the people who will be in the photographs and one additional "helper" should be in the room when your session starts. This will ensure there are not a lot of distractions to eat up your session time.
Preparing the Room
I will arrive and set up your room to allow for the best possible photos. This usually means opening the blinds and turning off the artificial lights to allow the most natural light in. Before I arrive, please remove any garbage, bags, food trays, or other personal items you wouldn't want to be memorialized in your photos.
Baby
Wait for me to arrive to dress baby. That way, I can get some snaps of you dressing your new little one, and we can avoid messes. A clean, plain white, or neutral-colored onesie is an excellent option. Because we don't want to upset babies or make them cold, we'll limit wardrobe changes to one. Accessories like a bow or rattle are fantastic, as is a favorite swaddle. These swaddles are lovely for photos.
Don't stress
This session is about you and your new baby. Fresh 48 sessions are meant to be laid back. I will take care of getting all the good shots. All you need to focus on is your new little family. Baby will be our guidepost. If we need to feed the baby, we will. All is well.
Warmly,
Nicole
Newborn In Home Photography, D.C., Maryland, Virginia
Lifestyle Newborn Photography
Our style of photography lends itself to taking a more natural and “lifestyle” approach to all of our subjects and this includes the youngest among them.
We don’t incorporate any props into our newborn photography sessions which allows us to focus on them just as they are.
Our style of photography lends itself to taking a more natural and “lifestyle” approach to all of our subjects, including the youngest among them.
We don’t incorporate any props into our newborn photography sessions, allowing us to focus on them just as they are.
We understand you may have a unique prop, outfit, or heirloom you wish to incorporate into your photo shoot. We are happy to take a few photos with whatever outfit or heirloom you like. Please discuss this with us before your session so we may be prepared.
When To Schedule Your Newborn Session
We encourage you to schedule your session a few months before your baby’s due date to lock in our availability. Then, once your baby has arrived, you will reach out to us to schedule the date and time of your session.
Typically newborn photographs are taken during the first month of birth.
To capture your little one in their home, we prefer to use natural light, so before we arrive, open up the blinds and pull back the curtains. We typically shoot when the sun is bright and high in the sky, allowing the best sort of window light. Mid-morning through early afternoons.
What should we wear?
We recommend soft, neutral colors with little to no patterns. Avoid logos or busy designs. Instead, choose outfits for family members that complement each other without matching.
For babies, the same rules apply. No pattern and neutral colors. If they are wearing a print, small and neutral is best. This also applies to their blankets, crib sheets, and swaddles. You are welcome to choose a few outfits for your newborn if you’d like.
For Mom – soft, comfortable clothing! You did just have a baby. A soft sweater, cotton gown, or simple t-shirt keeps you comfortable. It is ideal for mom-and-baby shots, especially for the more intimate close-ups.
Soft clothing and bare feet look great in the home setting. If you are able, do make this about you too. Get a blowout, a manicure, and put on some mascara. Moms are often behind the camera, and we like to pay special attention to them too.
For Dad – Pretty much the same guidelines. Comfortable, casual, and low-key. Wear jeans and a plain-colored tee or button-up that compliments your partner’s outfit nicely. Avoid large logos, bright colors, and bold patterns. Plain and simple is best!
Your standard neutral colors are black, white, grey, beige, brown, and navy. Jewel tones, like Hunter Green, Plum, and Rust, also photograph nicely if they are solid and not in a pattern.
For more details on attire, please refer to our What to Wear guide.
Your photographs will primarily focus on the baby and your relationship with him or her. We will pay particular attention to the details of their little bodies. The curve of their nose, the wrinkles on their toes, and whether or not they have eyelashes.
Pictures of your baby may include swaddling, dressed in a favorite outfit or a onesie, naked or partially naked (if the parents wish), feeding, and different group shots.
You’re really coming to my home? How should we prepare?
Don’t stress about the mess. You do not have to deep clean your home. However, try to tidy up the areas where we will photograph. Put away excess toys, clear counters, coffee tables, or bedside tables, and make the bed (like clothing, if we’ll be shooting in the master bedroom, a neutral duvet/comforter is best.) Put away the breast pump etc. Fresh flowers are a nice touch to make a room feel inviting. Especially if they’ll appear in the background.
If you’d want some photos of bare skin shots, we recommend warming up the house to about 75 degrees. Anywhere a baby may be lying - in his crib or on a bed, etc., it’s ideal to have a neutral backdrop. Darker colors or patterns can cast shadows on a baby’s skin.
Feed the baby 20 minutes before we arrive. But the theme here is flexibility, knowing a baby may need to eat a bit more during the session to keep the baby happy. So we will take as many breaks as necessary for feeding. Plus, it offers the opportunity for some beautiful shots.
It’s also a good idea to give older siblings a snack before we arrive. Providing a movie or other activity when they’re not being photographed is also a good idea.
What to expect on the day of your session
When we arrive, if we’ve not met before, I’ll introduce myself and get to know the baby and the family. Please have all the window blinds/curtains drawn open and overhead lighting turned off; that way, I can get the best idea of where to photograph. We may shoot in as many as three rooms in your home; totally up to you. The standard rooms we shoot in have the most window light. The nursery, master bedroom, and family room are the most popular.